Best Of North Vietnam

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4.9

(124 reviews)

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Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay

Commence your journey in Hanoi and conclude in Halong Bay! Embark on the Active tour “Best of North Vietnam – 7 days,” a 7-day package that guides you through Hanoi, Vietnam, and two additional captivating destinations. This tour package encompasses accommodations in hotels, flights, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, insurance coverage, meals, transportation, and more.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Upon your arrival in Hanoi, your driver will be ready to welcome you at the airport. You'll be transferred to your hotel located in the city center for check-in. The remainder of the day is free for your leisure.

Please note:

The hotel room will be available by 2:00 pm. If you wish to secure an early check-in, an additional charge will be applied.

Airports, both international and domestic, can be busy at times. If you face difficulty finding our representatives, please proceed to Pole No.16 outside lobby A2 (International) or the Lobby of domestic arrival (Domestic flight) and get in touch with us. This will help us locate you easily.

Meals: Not Applicable

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 2</span> HANOI CITY TOUR - OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO SAPA

Today, we will dedicate a full day to exploring the city. Our journey begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum and residence. Adjacent to it is the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, renowned for its unique architecture. After exploring the President's complex, our next stop is the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu). Although there are several Van Mieu sites across Vietnam, the most notable and prestigious one is located in Hanoi. It served as Vietnam's first university.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we proceed to the Museum of Ethnology. This outstanding museum showcases ethnic costumes from various minorities in Vietnam. It houses relics, tools, and even life-size replicas of their homes and structures.

Return to the hotel and enjoy free time until the transfer to the train station for the overnight journey to Lao Cai (for Sapa). A driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi around 21:00 hrs, transferring you to Hanoi train station. The overnight train departs at approximately 22:00 hrs, and you will share sleeping compartments (2 lower and 2 upper berths per compartment) with other passengers.

Note*:

Late checkout at the hotel is not included.

Our tour guide will not accompany you during the train journey.

Train schedule is subject to change depending on availability.

Private compartments are available upon request at an additional cost.

Train journeys offer a unique local experience, and cabins are shared with other passengers unless a private cabin is requested and paid for (with a supplement). Restrooms are located at either end of the carriages.

Accommodation: Overnight train to Sapa

<span> Day 3</span> Y LINH HO - LAO CHAI - TA VAN VILLAGES TREKKING

Sa Pa stands as a serene mountain town, boasting a rich tapestry of ethnic minority communities. The majority of these communities engage in farming on the terraced slopes, as much of the land is characterized by its mountainous terrain. Rice and corn serve as their primary sustenance. The labor-intensive nature of rice cultivation underscores the daily struggle for survival. The distinctive climate in Sapa significantly influences the residents, with subtropical summers, temperate winters, and 160 misty days annually impacting agricultural yields and health.

05:30 ~ 06:00: Arrival at Lao Cai Train Station. You will be greeted at the train station and transferred to Sapa. Early check-in is possible upon room availability (additional charges may apply). Enjoy breakfast and take some time to relax before embarking on our full-day tour.

9:30 am: Meet your local guide and commence a 6 km trek, descending to the southeast of Sapa along the Muong Hoa valley to reach Y Linh Ho village of the Black H'mong. Continue with a 2 km trek to Lao Chai village, passing through terraced rice fields, and then proceed to Ta Van village of the Dzay minority. Along the way, gain insights into local agriculture practices and daily lifestyles. Lunch will be hosted by a local family, providing a valuable opportunity to learn about their unique house architecture, reflecting their daily routines and distinct customs. Return to Sapa by jeep or motorbike.

Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa

<span> Day 4</span> CAT CAT - SIN CHAI VILLAGES TREKKING - BUS TO HANOI

08:30: Hotel pickup marks the beginning of our journey. Embark on a scenic walk towards the southwest of Sapa, covering approximately 4 km, to reach Cat Cat village, home to the Black H'mong ethnic group. Take in the beauty of a mesmerizing waterfall and explore the remnants of a hydroelectric power station dating back to the French colonial era in Vietnam. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch along the riverbank, followed by a 6 km trek to Sin Chai village nestled at the base of Fansipan Mountain, often referred to as the "Roof of Vietnam and Indochina." Marvel at the vast and breathtaking landscapes before ascending on the return journey to Sapa.

Afterward, you have free time to explore the town until the bus transfer to Hanoi, departing at 3:00 pm. Anticipate arrival in Hanoi around 9:00 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

<span> Day 5</span> HANOI - HALONG BAY - NIGHT ON BOARD

08:00: Your hotel in Hanoi is the starting point for your adventure. Embark on a scenic journey to Halong City, weaving through picturesque paddy fields in the Red River Delta.

10:00: Take a refreshing break during the journey.

12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau wharf, a perfect opportunity for a break and photography session.

12:30: Board the cruise, where a welcome drink awaits.

13:00: Relish lunch while cruising through the captivating bay.

15:30: Explore the fascinating Cua Van fishing village. This village is a peaceful enclave devoid of busy roads, electric lights, and towering buildings. Immerse yourself in the traditional culture and customs of the fishermen.

16:30: Enjoy kayaking or swimming, weather permitting.

17:00: Return to the cruise and continue the journey.

19:00: Savor a delightful dinner on board.

21:00: Utilize some leisure time for conversations at the bar or partake in night fishing.

Note: The specific itinerary and onboard activities may vary based on your chosen boat. Please refer to the boat options in the Hotel Inclusions.

Accommodation: Overnight on board

07:00: Indulge in a serving of coffee and tea.

08:00: Resume the enchanting cruise.

08:15: Explore the magnificent Sung Sot Cave.

09:00: Check out and relish a breathtaking cruise through Halong Bay, passing notable landmarks such as Dinh Huong Island, fishing villages, Ga Choi Island, Dog Island, and Sail Island.

09:30: Delight in a buffet brunch (a combination of breakfast and lunch) while cruising back to the pier.

11:30: Reach the pier, bidding farewell to the crew.

12:00: Depart from Halong and return to Hanoi. Anticipate arrival in Hanoi at around 17:00.

Note: The specific itinerary and onboard activities may vary based on your chosen boat. Please refer to the boat options in the Hotel Inclusions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Enjoy some leisure time until our transfer service arrives at your hotel to take you to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the conclusion of your journey.

Note: Depending on your flight schedule, our airport transfer will be arranged accordingly, allowing for 2.5 hours for domestic flights and 3.5 hours for international flights.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

Durations

5 - 8 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay

One Pillar Pagoda - One Pillar Pagoda – The Timeless Lotus of Hanoi (Updated 2025) 📍 Location: Ong Ich Khiem Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi🕖 Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM💰 Entrance: Free of charge 🌸 Introduction – A Symbol of Hanoi’s Spiritual Soul Few landmarks capture the poetic essence of Hanoi quite like the One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột). Nestled just a short stroll south of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, this petite yet powerful monument stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s enduring faith, resilience, and artistic heritage. Often mentioned in the same breath as the Turtle Tower on Hoan Kiem Lake, the One Pillar Pagoda is one of Hanoi’s most photographed icons — and for good reason. Its delicate lotus-like form rising from a tranquil pond has made it not only a cultural treasure but also a spiritual emblem of enlightenment and rebirth. 🕍 The Legend Behind the Lotus Built in 1049 during the reign of Emperor Ly Thai Tong, the pagoda’s origins are deeply spiritual. According to legend, the emperor had a dream in which the Bodhisattva Quan Am (Goddess of Mercy) appeared to him, seated on a lotus flower, and handed him a son. Shortly after, the queen gave birth to a prince — a miracle that inspired the emperor to construct this unique pagoda to express his gratitude to Quan Am. The pagoda’s design reflects this divine vision. Rising gracefully from a single stone pillar at the center of a lotus pond, it symbolizes a lotus blossom emerging from muddy waters, a powerful image in Buddhism representing purity, wisdom, and enlightenment. 🪷 A Masterpiece of Vietnamese Architecture Although small — the main shrine measures just around three square meters — the One Pillar Pagoda is considered one of the most distinctive architectural creations in Vietnam. The entire structure balances harmoniously atop a single column that rises from an artificial pond, mirroring the shape of a blooming lotus. Inside the wooden sanctuary, visitors will find a serene statue of Quan Am, the compassionate bodhisattva who inspired the pagoda’s creation. Offerings of incense, fresh flowers, and fruits are often placed here by worshippers seeking blessings for fertility, health, and peace. The current version of the pagoda, however, is not the original. Over the centuries, it has been rebuilt several times, with the most recent major reconstruction taking place in 1955, after the retreating French army destroyed the structure in 1954. The concrete pillar seen today replaces the ancient wooden support, ensuring stability and longevity in Hanoi’s changing climate. 🌿 A Place of Prayer and Reflection Despite its size, the One Pillar Pagoda remains an active and cherished place of worship. Every morning, monks and local devotees gather to light incense, chant sutras, and offer prayers. Visitors often join in, drawn by the tranquil energy that seems to radiate from this sacred spot. It’s not uncommon to see newlyweds visiting the pagoda to pray for a harmonious marriage or couples hoping for children offering lotus flowers to Quan Am. The spiritual atmosphere, combined with the picturesque lotus pond and surrounding banyan trees, creates a scene that feels both intimate and timeless. 📸 A Photographer’s Dream For travelers and photographers, the One Pillar Pagoda offers endless inspiration. The best time to visit is early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) when the soft sunlight illuminates the pagoda and the reflection shimmers in the water. Late afternoons around 4:00–5:00 PM are equally beautiful, especially when monks’ chants echo faintly in the distance. During Buddhist holidays such as Vesak or the Lunar New Year, the pagoda is adorned with colorful lanterns, lotus blossoms, and offerings — a vibrant celebration of faith that attracts both locals and international visitors. 🌸 Nearby Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss Because the pagoda sits in the heart of Hanoi’s historical core, you can easily explore several major landmarks on foot: 🏛️ Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex – Just next door, where visitors can pay respects to Vietnam’s founding father.🏡 Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House – A glimpse into the simple lifestyle of “Uncle Ho,” surrounded by tranquil gardens.🌿 Hanoi Botanical Gardens – A peaceful green haven just behind the mausoleum complex, ideal for a relaxing stroll.🕍 Tran Quoc Pagoda – Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, located a short drive away on the serene shores of West Lake. 💡 Travel Tip: Visit the One Pillar Pagoda early in the morning (before 8:30 AM) to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and national holidays. Dress modestly when entering sacred areas — shoulders and knees should be covered. 🌺 Restoration & Preservation Efforts (2025 Update) In recent years, the Vietnamese government and cultural preservation groups have taken new steps to protect the One Pillar Pagoda’s structure and surrounding landscape. Restoration work completed in 2024 reinforced the base and repainted the wooden beams to better withstand humidity and time. The nearby pond has been cleaned and partially replanted with native lotus species, returning the site to its symbolic roots. Plans are also underway to enhance accessibility for visitors, including improved walkways and information boards in English, French, and Korean. These thoughtful updates ensure that future generations can continue to experience the beauty and symbolism of this thousand-year-old treasure. 🌸 Why the One Pillar Pagoda Belongs on Your Hanoi Itinerary More than just a sightseeing stop, the One Pillar Pagoda embodies the spiritual soul of Vietnam — a story of faith, resilience, and rebirth that continues to inspire visitors from around the world. Whether you come for its architecture, history, or quiet atmosphere, this little pagoda leaves a lasting impression that goes far beyond its modest size. 🪷 Travelers often say that no trip to Hanoi feels complete without standing before the One Pillar Pagoda — watching its reflection in the still pond, and feeling, even for a moment, the peace it was built to share. ✨ Quick Visitor Summary 📍 Address: Ong Ich Khiem Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi🕖 Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)💰 Entry: Free👗 Dress Code: Modest clothing required (no shorts or...Hanoi Botanical Gardens - 🌿 Hanoi Botanical Gardens – A Peaceful Green Escape in the Heart of the Capital (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 3 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, between West Lake and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum🕕 Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM💰 Entrance Fee: Small charge (cash only at the gate) 🌸 A Breath of Fresh Air in the Heart of History After exploring the solemn landmarks of Ba Dinh Square — from Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum to the Presidential Palace — many travelers find themselves craving a bit of tranquility. Luckily, just a short stroll away lies one of Hanoi’s most beloved green spaces: the Hanoi Botanical Gardens (Vườn Bách Thảo Hà Nội). Originally established by the French colonial administration in 1890, this lush oasis was intended as both a research garden and a leisure park. Over the decades, it has evolved into a cherished retreat for locals and visitors alike — a refreshing blend of history, culture, and nature nestled amid the bustle of the city. 🌳 A Garden of Legacy and Life While it’s called a botanical garden, today the Hanoi Botanical Gardens feels more like a sprawling public park — and that’s part of its charm. Ancient trees tower over winding paths, offering shade and serenity even during Hanoi’s hottest months. You’ll also find grassy lawns perfect for picnicking, small ponds where turtles and fish swim lazily, and charming bridges arching over lotus-filled waters. Locals often refer to it affectionately as “the green lungs of Ba Dinh.” Early mornings here are especially magical — you’ll see groups of elderly residents practicing tai chi, families enjoying light exercises, and photographers capturing the golden sunrise filtering through the canopy. 🎨 Sculptures, Wildlife & Relaxed Vibes Adding to the park’s atmosphere are several modern sculptures scattered among the greenery — artistic expressions that contrast beautifully with the natural surroundings. Look out for the stone elephants and abstract bronze forms, favorites among children and art enthusiasts alike. The gardens are also home to a surprising amount of wildlife for such a central location. You may spot colorful birds, dragonflies, and even resident squirrels darting among the branches. For many Hanoians, this park serves as a small but vital refuge for biodiversity within the urban sprawl. 🧘‍♀️ What to Do at Hanoi Botanical Gardens 🌼 Morning Walks or Jogging: The well-maintained paths make it an ideal spot for light exercise. Locals often jog or join group aerobics near the central lake. 📸 Photography: Between the ancient trees, reflection ponds, and colonial-style gates, this park is a paradise for photographers seeking natural beauty in the city. 🪶 Birdwatching: Bring a pair of binoculars if you’re into birdwatching — several native and migratory species have been recorded here, especially during spring. 🧺 Picnics & Family Outings: With its wide lawns and shaded benches, the park is perfect for a laid-back picnic or an afternoon with kids. 💃 Evening Local Life: As dusk falls, the park transforms into a lively social hub — couples stroll hand-in-hand, groups of friends chat over snacks, and families unwind after a long day. ☕ Nearby Attractions & Local Tips If you’re exploring Ba Dinh District, the Botanical Gardens are ideally located near several of Hanoi’s top attractions. 🌺 Nearby Places to Visit: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex – Just a 10-minute walk away; best visited early morning. Presidential Palace Grounds – Admire the colonial architecture from the outside. One Pillar Pagoda – A short stroll away; one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples. West Lake (Hồ Tây) – The city’s largest lake, perfect for sunset views and lakeside cafés. ☕ Café Tip: After your walk, unwind with an iced coffee at Koi Café or Cộng Cà Phê nearby — both popular spots for watching daily life unfold. 💡 Travel Tip: Visit early morning (before 8 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Bring mosquito repellent if you plan to sit near the lakes during humid months (May–August). 🌱 Why You Shouldn’t Miss It in 2025 In recent years, Hanoi’s Botanical Gardens have undergone several renovations and eco-upgrades. Walking paths have been repaved, lighting improved, and new seating areas added for visitors. The park is also participating in a citywide “Green Hanoi 2030” project, promoting urban biodiversity and sustainability. For travelers in 2025, the gardens represent more than just a scenic stop — they’re a symbol of Hanoi’s ongoing balance between preserving its cultural heritage and embracing greener urban living. 🌺 Final Thoughts Whether you’re a history buff winding down after visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, a nature lover seeking calm in the city, or simply someone who enjoys slow travel, the Hanoi Botanical Gardens offer a gentle reminder that peace can be found even in the heart of a bustling capital. ✨ Take a walk, breathe deeply, and let Hanoi’s quieter side surprise you.

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From: $420

4-star hotels

4.9 (124 Reviews)

Best of North Vietnam – 7 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 HANOI ARRIVAL

Day 2 HANOI CITY TOUR - OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO SAPA

Day 3 Y LINH HO - LAO CHAI - TA VAN VILLAGES TREKKING

Day 4 CAT CAT - SIN CHAI VILLAGES TREKKING - BUS TO HANOI

Day 5 HANOI - HALONG BAY - NIGHT ON BOARD

Day 6 HALONG BAY - HANOI

Day 7 HANOI DEPARTURE

Durations

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